Ashes 2013/14: Jos Buttler backing Matt Prior to return to form soon

Prior's place in the England side for the fourth Ashes Test against Australia in Melbourne is in doubt after making several mistakes behind the stumps in the series so far as well as struggling for runs.

Jonny Bairstow has been tipped for a start in the Boxing Day Test, having impressed for the England Performance Programme.

However Buttler expects Prior to recapture the form that saw him named cricketer of the year back in May.

Buttler told Sky Sports: "Everyone knows what a quality cricketer Matt is. He has shown that over a number of years for England and he's obviously a big voice in the dressing room as well.

"He is vice-captain so he is a massive player for England and I'm sure it won't be long until he is back to his best form and that's only going to help England.

Ambition

"I'm sure it's not far away, I'm sure he'll feel in great nick himself and it's only a matter of time before he gets a big score."

Buttler has impressed in the short form of the game for England so far and he is keen to continue making his mark on the international scene.

He added: "Everyone wants to play for England and there is always going to be competition and it's everyone's ambition in county cricket - they want to play for England."

The 23-year-old will join Lancashire next season after leaving Somerset and he is relishing the chance to continue his career at Old Trafford.

He said: "I'm really looking forward to my move to Lancashire. I think that's going to take my career onto the next level and I'm looking forward to working with (coach) Peter Moores and being the number one keeper there."

Buttler is currently in Australia where he is due to play for the Melbourne Renegades in the T20 Big Bash League which starts on Friday with the Renegades taking on the Melbourne Stars.

He said: "The standard is really high over here and there are some top players in this comp.

"So all the exposure you get against different players and in different environments can only aid you in preparation and increasing your profile and becoming a better player."

Watch the Renegades take on the Stars in the Melbourne derby as the Big Bash kicks off on Friday, live on Sky Sports 2 HD from 8.30am